THE INDEPENDENT INSTITUTE is a non-profit, non-partisan, public-policy research and educational organization that shapes ideas into profound and lasting impact through publications, conferences, and effective multi-media programs. Our mission is to boldly advance peaceful, prosperous, and free societies grounded in a commitment to human worth and dignity.

Applying independent thinking to issues that matter, we create transformational ideas for today’s most pressing social and economic challenges. By connecting these ideas with organizations and networks, we inspire action that can unleash an era of unparalleled human flourishing at home and around the globe.

Today, the influence of partisan interests is so pervasive that public-policy debate has become too politicized and is largely confined to a narrow reconsideration of existing policies. In order to fully understand the nature of public issues and possible solutions, the Institute’s program adheres to the highest standards of independent scholarly inquiry.

The resulting studies are published and widely distributed as books, articles in The Independent Review, Policy Reports, Working Papers, and other publications. Events sponsored by Independent bring together scholars and policy experts to debate issues and discuss their implications. This work is conducted in conjunction with a series of educational centers:

• Center on Culture and Civil Society
• Center on Educational Excellence
• Center on Entrepreneurial Innovation
• Center on Global Prosperity
• Center on Health and the Environment
• Center on Law and Justice
• Center on Peace and Liberty

In addition, Independent publishes the quarterly newsletter, The Independent, and the weekly email newsletter, The Lighthouse. We maintain an extensive online archive of Institute articles and studies on a variety of issues.

The Independent Institute receives no government funding. Instead, it draws its support from a diverse range of foundations, businesses, and individuals, and from the sale of its publications. Contributions to the Independent Institute are tax-deductible under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Independent Institute members receive Institute publications plus discounts to Independent Policy Forums and other events.

Through uncommon independence, depth, and clarity, the Independent Institute expands the frontiers of our knowledge of public policy and fosters new and effective directions for government reform.